Toyota also confirmed that the Supra’s revival will be shown off in a race car concept.
The second-generation Auris has existed for nearly eight years. A replacement is necessary to keep this hatchback competitive and fresh. Since the end of June 2016,, we have been sharing spy photos of the new Auris / Corolla iM. Now, we will be able to see the C segment model in all its production glory.
First, Toyota released a teaser image of the car. It shows that significant improvements have been made to the exterior design. The car has full LED taillights and headlights, a contrast black roof, and side mirrors that are lower than the A-pillars.
Toyota also announced that the Auris would mark the debut of a hybridized 2.0-liter engine. The company also spoke out about the benefits of a variable control system and how the new gasoline four-cylinder Dynamicforce Engine uses a more efficient combustion process. It has a higher thermal efficiency (41% and 41% respectively in hybrid models) and generates more horsepower while complying with strict exhaust regulations. The output of the hybrid engine is rated at 144 horsepower (107 kW) at 6,000 RPM and 180 Nm at 4,400 RPM.
Toyota is also working on a hybrid system for the 2.0-liter engine. This uses the same technology as the Prius and makes use of the experience gained from its development. Toyota promises a linear and extended sense of acceleration, as well as “superior fuel economy” and improved driving dynamics.
Although the teaser image shows only a small portion of the exterior design, spy photos have shown that there will be major changes inside the cabin. The infotainment system will now be higher up on the center console and above the air vents. The new TNGA underpinnings will allow for more space for both the driver and the passengers. This could lead to a larger trunk.
Toyota is focusing on efficiency so the new Auris / Corolla iM won’t use as much fuel as the previous model. According to Didier Leroy, the company’s executive vice president, diesel engines could be removed from Europe. This statement was made at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show. The new electrified 2.0-liter is more efficient than the hybridized 1.8 liter so who really needs diesel?
Toyota also introduced a six-speed manual transmission for worldwide use. However, the focus is on Europe. It is seven kilograms lighter (15.4 pounds) than the current transmission, and 24 millimeters shorter (nearly an in) overall. This makes it one of the most compact transmissions in the world. It’s still more efficient than the old box and can handle up 280 Nm (207 Lb-ft) torque.
A direct shift-CVT is also new with lower mechanical losses, better shift tracking and a launch gear. The latter represents a first for continuously variable transmissions and brings 20% faster shifting speeds.
Toyota also developed two new four-wheel drive systems for hybrid cars, one specifically designed for gasoline-powered vehicles and the other for hybrids. Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD is the first. It uses torque vectoring to distribute torque to the right and left rear wheels, depending on driving conditions. E-Four, which is also known as E-Four increases the total torque channeled towards the rear wheels by 30% over existing hardware.
Toyota will host the world debut for the new Auris at the 88 Geneva Motor Show on March 6, where it will also display the refreshed Aygo. The Concept-I Series, Fine-Comfort Ride Concept, and the Supra Revival will all be made public in race cars form.